40/50
Dutch princess born in Canada; tulips symbolize enduring gratitude.

In 1940, as war intensified in Europe, Princess Juliana left the Netherlands and took shelter in Ottawa, Canada, for protection. To ensure her daughter, Princess Margriet, born in 1943, had Dutch citizenship, Canada temporarily made the hospital room extraterritorial. In appreciation, Princess Juliana sent 100,000 tulip bulbs to Canada in 1945, starting an annual tradition that continues today, symbolizing the lasting friendship between the two countries.

39/50
Stork Klepetan flew annually to injured mate Malena for decades.

From 2001 to 2021, a stork named Klepetan flew 13,000 kilometers each year from South Africa to Croatia to be with Malena, his partner who couldn’t fly due to an injury. They raised 66 chicks together, with Klepetan helping to build nests and find food. Malena died in 2021 at 28 years old, with Klepetan by her side. Their story touched people around the world, showing deep love and loyalty.​

38/50
Japan’s toll system crashed; drivers still paid online later.

Japan’s toll system experienced a 38-hour outage, prompting officials to open toll gates and allow vehicles to pass without immediate payment. Drivers were asked to settle their tolls online later. Despite the inconvenience, over 21,000 drivers complied with the request, reflecting the country’s strong culture of civic responsibility.

37/50
Titanic monument honors men who sacrificed for women’s survival.

In Washington, D.C., there exists a Titanic monument funded by women to honor the men who perished so that women and children could survive. Only 20% of men survived, while over 70% of women and children were saved.

36/50
Simone Biles has 41 medals and five signature gymnastic moves.

Simone Biles, the most decorated American gymnast, has 11 Olympic and 30 World Championship medals. She has five eponymous moves and is considered one of the greatest gymnasts ever.

35/50
Warren Buffett gained over 99% of his wealth post-50, becoming a billionaire at 56.

Warren Buffett amassed more than 99% of his wealth after turning 50, becoming a billionaire at 56; his net worth now surpasses $100 billion.

34/50
UK four-day workweek trial: 92% adoption, improved productivity, well-being.

A UK trial of a four-day workweek with 61 companies found that 54 continued the practice, with most making it permanent. Employees worked fewer hours while maintaining productivity, with some companies reporting revenue growth of up to 35%. Workers also experienced improved health, less burnout, and even weight loss.

33/50
Artificial cornea implant restores sight to 78-year-old Israeli man.

A 78-year-old Israeli man regained his vision after receiving the CorNeat KPro, a synthetic cornea designed to integrate directly with the eye wall, eliminating the need for donor tissue.

32/50
Jimmy Carter helped disassemble Canada’s damaged NRX nuclear reactor manually.

In 1952, Jimmy Carter, then a U.S. Navy lieutenant, led a team of military personnel to help disassemble the damaged NRX nuclear reactor in Canada. Carter and his team were lowered into the reactor in short intervals, dismantling it by hand to minimize radiation exposure.

31/50
Japan’s Kōreisha mark indicates elderly drivers, prompting considerate driving.

In Japan, drivers aged 70 and over are encouraged to display the Kōreisha mark on their vehicles, signaling their senior status and prompting other motorists to offer extra consideration on the road. This practice is voluntary for those aged 70 to 74 and mandatory for drivers 75 and older.